Vacation Rentals by Owner

A Fabulous Month spent at "Chi Rising"

Guest: Navy Mom (Memphis, TN)
Date of Stay: 04/03/12 Review Submitted: 05/23/12

Words are inadequate to express the wonderful time spent in Annapolis at "Chi Rising." The cottage was beautiful and relaxing from the inside, to the screened in porch, and to the yard surrounded by blooms galore. A month is a long time to be away from home, but not long enough if staying here. The cottage was a perfect location for us as well. Minutes from everywhere we needed to be - USNA, downtown, the stadium, and the mall area. Can not wait til our next stay at "Chi Rising!" Yarrow, thanks for being so wonderful to us and sharing your beautiful cottage with us!!

Owner response:Retreat, relax and renew! Whether by yourself or with friends or a special interest group, the cottage inspires motivation, provides sensory stimulus to spark your creativity and embues your senses with a quiet, calm environment (both inside and in the gardens)to restore your inner well-being! Invest in yourself! You deserve it!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

A Charming Retreat

Guest: Steve & Debora (Deep Creek Lake, MD)
Date of Stay: 02/22/12 Review Submitted: 04/05/12

We stayed at Chi Rising for 5 weeks and loved it. It has everything you would need, even for an extended stay. The house is very clean and artfully decorated. The gardens are beautiful and watching them spring to life was a joy. The location is great, walkable to great restaurants and the harbor area. Our favorite restaurants were Boatyard Grill, Vin 909 and Grump's for breakfast (quirky but fantastic). The owner, Yarrow, goes out of her way to make sure the stay is enjoyable. We can't wait to return.

Owner response:Ecocruiser provides free transportation to City Dock...Or you can walk there in 10 minutes. Arriving by boat? Historic Sarles Marina is just 4 blocks away. Chi Rising is a cozy quaint cottage to kick back and relax! Not fussy or stuffy just easy and fun! Plenty of outdoor space nestled privately behind a cedar fence and a natural border of photinia, hemlock, river birch and crape myrtle. Decor includes primitive antiques that pre-date today's "shabby chic" trend. A new "beauty corner" in the master suite creates a convenient space for touching up makeup and hair dos. The cottage is accessorized to be your "home away from home."

Recommended for:Age 55+, girls getaway, tourists without a car, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

What A Place!!

Guest: Mike & Lynn
Date of Stay: 01/22/12 Review Submitted: 01/29/12

Lynn and I had a great time staying at Chi Rising. the cottage is very warm and inviting for the colder months. We can't wait to come back to enjoy the backyard in the warmer months. Annapolis is a very charming and historic town!

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Thanksgiving & Hospitality At Its Best

Guest: From the Pups Allie & Mollie...and their family.
Date of Stay: 11/25/11 Review Submitted: 01/09/12

Just wanted to let you know that our family greatly enjoyed celebrating our Thanksgiving holiday at Chi Rising. I have already begun thinking about my next trip! Thank you so much for all your hospitality. Best Wishes and Happy Holidays.

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5 Stars is not enough!!!!

Guest: Autumn (Fairfax, Virginia)
Date of Stay: 11/24/11 Review Submitted: 01/14/12

My family, two pups, and I enjoyed spending our best Thanksgiving ever at the Chi Rising! The cottage is so charming and beautiful that the pics don't do it justice. The beautifully decorated backyard and porch inspires an incredible sense of serenity and calm. And its incredibly romantic too! The pups had such a blast frolicking in the yard that they were pooped out after dinner. Yarrow is the kindest and most thoughtful hostess. She even phoned to make sure all was well after our arrival. The location is a short stroll from downtown Annapolis, which is head and shoulders the most dog-friendly city we have ever taken our pups to. Now that the chaos of the holidays are over, we will soon start planning our next trip to the Chi Rising; can't stop thinking about spending time on that porch!

Owner response:Location and location with gated parking (well, actually any parking) in Annapolis is a real find. This cottage has both and is also a pleasant water-view amble to USNA Gate 1 and a quick motor escape to all events at USNA Memorial field. While in town, make this location your base camp and relax here where you will enjoy the quiet of an urban hideaway within the heartbeat of Maryland's Capital City.

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Very Comfy!

Guest: Jenifer & Bob P.
Date of Stay: 11/10/11 Review Submitted: 01/09/12

We all enjoyed our stay at this charming cottage. We quickly felt right at home!

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Weekend with Friends!

Guest: Tanya & Greg
Date of Stay: 10/20/11 Review Submitted: 10/25/11

What a spot to drop our bags and enjoy Annapolis! "Chi Rising" cottage provided a cozy environment to catch up with our friends. Lovely house! "Chi" ya next time!

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Respite During an Exciting Vacation

Guest: Skip and Mary
Date of Stay: 09/21/11 Review Submitted: 10/25/11

Thank you so much for all! Rain for most of the week but we took advantage of the screened porch on our return from enjoying the Academy and the downtown harbor. Best seafood at Wild Country Seafood at the Maritime Museum at 2nd & Back Creek. We walked there! So much to see and do and Chi Rising cottage was waiting peacefully each day for our return and respite.

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A Dog Owner's Paradise

Guest: Akiko & Taka
Date of Stay: 09/06/11 Review Submitted: 10/25/11

Thank you for allowing us to stay here with our two miniature Dachshunds. It was a beautiful place and we enjoyed our stay. Thank you for all your help. Glad you're closeby.

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Great Long Weekend Stay

Guest: Lauren (Charlotte, NC)
Date of Stay: 09/02/11 Review Submitted: 09/28/11

We stayed at the cottage for a long weekend for the Labor Day Holiday and were pleasantly surprised with the coziness and quaintness of the cottage! It's also in a great location - you can walk almost anywhere! The back screened in porch was perfect for the weather, as we spent the majority of out time out back. Great experience overall, and would definitely stay again! Thanks Yarrow!

Owner response:A great way to enjoy regular visits in Annapolis is to stay at this cottage. From here you can take in all the City has to offer. To highlight a few: October/November - USNA Games & Alumni Reunions, U.S. Sailboat and Power Boat Shows. December - Lighted Boat Parade & Competition, Midnight Madness, "First Night" city-wide celebration. January through March - Art Shows, Maryland's Legislative Session, Smores and Hot Chocolate around the cottage Chimniea. May - USNA Commission Week June/July/August - Plebe Weekend, Boat Races, Art Shows, Historic Events Weekends and events abound in Annapolis.

Recommended for:Age 55+, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Fantastic!

Guest: Jim (Washington, D.C.)
Date of Stay: 08/04/11 Review Submitted: 08/11/11

A wonderful place that served as a quick weekend getaway from the city. An oasis of sorts, this home provides the kind of coziness and warmth one seeks on a getaway. Every detail is thought out -- from the lighting, to the rocking chairs on the back porch, the grill and its accesseries, and even the bathroom and shower (loved the shower radio!). It must be said that the owner, Yarrow, was an absolute pleasure to rent from -- gave great details about the area, clear instructions on the house, and, was absolutely non-intrusive during our entire stay (we only spoke before and after the rental period). Simply cannot recommend this place more highly!

Owner response:A season and a reason is all you need for a memorable experience at this charming 50s vintage cottage. Whatever season you love, the gardens at chi rising greet you with bursting color, the cottage is decorated for holidays and USNA events. Whatever the celebration, this is a romantic little haven where many sweet memories are made.

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with young children, girls getaway, tourists without a car, pet owners, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

A Lovely Cottage-- Very Welcoming

Guest: EJ (washington dc)
Date of Stay: 07/29/11 Review Submitted: 08/01/11

This weekend, my two daughters and I traveled from Washington, DC, to Annapolis to meet a friend from New York and her twelve-year-old niece for a girls' getaway. The cottage was lovely, and Yarrow was extremely welcoming (she left ice pops for the girls and iced tea for the adults, not to mention two friendly notes). Yarrow clearly is a master of feng shui because the house has a terrific aura-- lots of harmony and balance. Yarrow is also extremely well organized; she left a binder of helpful hints and menus for local restaurants. We spent time in downtown Annapolis (ate at Lemongrass-- very good) and shopped in some of the boutiques. Also took a day trip to St. Michael's, which was easy and fun. On our final morning at the cottage, the two girls, 12 and 13, made scrambled eggs for everyone. When they broke the eggs in the mixing bowl, the yolks formed a perfect smiley face. We all agreed that this summed up our experience at Yarrow's home perfectly.

Owner response:Think of this: Roasting marshmallows and hotdogs around the fire! Kids love it, adults relive their childhood camp experiences and everyone has a fun time. The cottage's backyard is just one fun place to enjoy all the celebrations of holidays and family events. There are games for everyone, too. Croquet, badminton, rebounder, backgammon AND the most difficult game of all: "who can do nothing for the longest time?" Make a reservation today so you have something to look forward to! We'll leave the light on for ya!

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

A True (and much-needed) Vacation

Guest: Michelle and Bryan (Providence)
Date of Stay: 06/05/11 Review Submitted: 06/18/11

What a fantastic way to spend a week while our daughter attended a camp at the Naval Academy! We truly felt at home on our vacation. While we didn't take advantage of the lovely back yard/garden, we certainly looked forward to returning to the comfort and ease of Chi Rising at the end of each day. Oh, and, I can't forget to mention the central air! It was extremely warm in Annapolis, mid to upper 90s, and we often walked to and from town (about a half hour each way walking at a leisurely pace... very easy!). We'd arrive back at the cottage pretty worn out, but upon walking through the door, all was good... Despite a wonderful kitchen stocked with everything one might need to cook, we took advantage of the many great restaurants Annapolis has to offer. I thought I'd share some of the places we ate (and things we did!) on vacation: We had incredible meals at Vin 909 (just a short walk from Chi Rising) and Level (West St....amazing cocktails too) and enjoyed Lemongrass (also on West St.) & The Mexican Café (look out for those those potent margs!) as well. Oh, and Ken’s Back Porch was truly a “hidden gem” for breakfast (French toast bliss!) Kilwin’s ice cream (chain) is great but the Annapolis Ice Cream Company is amazing...homemade in store! (both on Main St.) If you want to save a little money, the Happy Hour is fantastic. Seemingly every restaurant in Annapolis has one, with drink and appetizer specials. 4-7 was the general time. The State House is a must-see (Annapolis Pottery is right across the street) and the Bannecker-Douglass museum does a fantastic job chronicling the lives of slaves and the Civil Rights Movement in Annapolis & Maryland (both are free). Oh, and a fortuitous lunch at Rams Head Tavern on West Street – good food & beer (Tuesday lunch only) meant two free tickets to take in a show at Rams Head Live! in Baltimore ( and the National Aquarium is top notch). A great day trip (or two) was Mt. Vernon and Maryland’s wineries (leave early to go to a few – they all close by 5 or 6 regardless of what their websites say!) As you can see, we kept busy, but it was always wonderful and relaxing to return “home.” Thanks for everything, Yarrow, and it was so nice meeting you!

Owner response:There is so much to do in Annapolis, including nothing! We are casual and you can definitely create your own experience at a pace that makes your heart sing. Chi Rising has soothing energy to take you to a different level of fun. After tailgating & taking in a Navy game invite your friends over to kickback, review some post-game strategies & toss the pigskin around yourselves in the backyard. Now, is the optimum time to reserve the cottage for football season, especially for the big games! Don't procrastinate. You'll want to be here. Make it a long weekend and avoid the traffic. You'll be glad you did. Let us hear from you soon. We're cheering for you here at the Chi Rising cottage.

Recommended for:Age 55+, girls getaway, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Daughter's Wedding

Guest: Donna & Jerry (Bella Vista, AR)
Date of Stay: 05/25/11 Review Submitted: 06/09/11

After a one year engagement to a mid-shipman, we needed a place to prepare and plan for our daughter's wedding and future son-in-law's graduation from the Academy. Chi Rising was the perfect location and reminded us of home with all it's beautiful gardens and cozy accommodations. We were able to enjoy all the festivities easily given the location and comfort. The bridesmaids and bride decided it would be the perfect place to get ready on the big wedding day. We had the makeup artist and hair stylist come to the cottage and it was a blast spending the day with all the girls sharing stories with mimosas and fruit/snacks. It worked out perfectly and everyone remained relaxed before arrival to the Chapel at the Academy which was a short distance. The day after we were able to have dinner at the peaceful cottage and relax with our new son-in-law and daughter. Yarrow (the owner) was a joy to meet and very accommodating, providing us information about the local area in preparation for our visit. I would highly recommend Chi Rising for any occassion.

Owner response:Secluded behind gardens and a cedar fence, Chi Rising cottage provides a bucolic backdrop for celebrations, romantic getaways, USNA events and family vacations. Parents love the yard for the kids and dogs; kidsand dogs love it for the fun and freedom. Recently, the gated off-street parking was enhanced to ease your arrival so you can off-load your luggage directly onto the screened porch. A hammock has been added to increase relaxation.. Chi Rising is cozy, comfortable and convenient to City amenities. Call it "home" while you are here. Mi Casa, Su Casa.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, families with young children, tourists without a car, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

A perfect Christmas in Annapolis

Guest: Gitte (Midwest)
Date of Stay: 12/21/10 Review Submitted: 01/31/11

Staying in this cozy cottage over the Holidays was a great combination of charm and convenience to our daughter and her family. They could pop in for a few hours, share meals with us or just sit and visit for a short time.The space allowed for all of the above. But in addition it was a quiet oasis for reading, watching TV or sipping eggnog. The entire cottage was delightfully decorated for Christmas. The best part of the Cottage is the location. Downtown Annapolis is within walking distance for shopping, dining out or visiting all the historical places and attractions, including seasonal events. If your'e looking for charm and authenticity in an Eastport Cottage, then this is the place for you.

Owner response:Whatever holiday you want to spend in Annapolis, Chi Rising steps up to the occasion. The cottage is sweet, charming and "dresses up" nicely for you. A variety of seasonal flags beckons you and your friends; the decor transforms for the utmost feeling of home-away-from-home; and seasonal linens make your entertaining unique and special. Consider making Chi Rising your holiday destination when coming to Annapolis.

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

One month stay

Guest: Casey (Annapolis,MD)
Date of Stay: 11/08/10 Review Submitted: 12/21/10

We recently stayed at Yarrow's charming cottage during our move to Annapolis. The location was wonderful, and the cottage had everything that we needed for such a long stay. Even though the weather was to cold to enjoy the outdoors, the yard was beautiful. I would recommend this location to any visitor coming to Annapolis. Thanks again Yarrow!

Owner response:Relocating? The cottage has all you need for a comfortable "home-away-from-home" experience while you explore Annapolis and its exciting culture. Amenities are already in the cottage kitchen items, linens etc). Simply bring your favorite food, beverages, personal items and reading material. Ask me! Consider my help a welcome gift! Whatever you are pondering, I know Annapolis and her people well. Indoors, outdoors, walk or ride the free e-shuttle--Annapolis awaits you!

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Wonderful get away!

Guest: Jan (NJ)
Date of Stay: 10/14/10 Review Submitted: 10/18/10

We had the most enjoyable stay. Chi Rising is set with relaxing spaces. Our stay felt like home away from home. Yarrow's hospitality was wonderful. Everything is set with charm and comfort. The back porch is screened in with low lighting and a romantic setting. The back yard was wonderful for our son to explore and play. There is also a wonderful resort of books to read and very comfy spots to enjoy them in. We were able to park and walk or get a taxi to anything we wanted to do. We will cherish our vist and will be back again. Jan,Bill & Billy. :)

Owner response:To add to the outdoor comfort of our guests, a Mosquito Magnet is at work on the property. The mosquito population here in Annapolis is healthy. After all we have all the wonderful water of the Chesapeake Bay and beautiful wetlands, home to wildlife species. Wouldn't trade the beauty of Annapolis for anything. A mosquito magnet provides a natural way to live in harmony with nature.

Recommended for:Families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Guest: Kathy & John
Date of Stay: 09/13/10 Review Submitted: 10/04/10

Thank you for a lovely place to stay. We had a fantastic weekend with our Mid! We loved your back porch! ... Very peaceful after fast paced days. We will come back for another visit. Kathy & John

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Charming Cottage

Guest: Susan&Ed (Boston, MA)
Date of Stay: 05/22/10 Review Submitted: 05/29/10

Your cottage lived up to our expectations - and more! It was a peaceful respite for us from the frenzied schedule of Commissioning Week. And, thank you for the many thoughtful things that you set up in the cottage for our stay. We loved the Navy banner, too!

Owner response:We are all about making family celebrations fun and easy for our guests. The cottage is charming and comfortable, the gardens offer privacy and a back gate entrance is convenient for the arrival of visitors.

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Guest: Skye2 (Albuquerque, New Mexico)
Date of Stay: 11/14/09 Review Submitted: 11/14/09

What a welcoming, comfortable, colorful and cheery abode! Lush gardens and a serene landscape surround you outdoors and the house is full of warmth indoors. This home offers a wonderful respite so close to the heart of Annapolis, Maryland. I highly recommend a stay at this charming, vintage Eastport cottage.

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Guest: The Zettlers (Columbus, OH)
Date of Stay: 10/13/09 Review Submitted: 10/13/09

A perfect place for our long October weekend in Annapolis! We really enjoyed the screened porch during the day and the chimenea when it got chilly at night. Thanks for your gracious hospitality!

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Guest: E. Williams1 (Norfolk, VA)
Date of Stay: 08/18/09 Review Submitted: 08/18/09

Thanks for a great Anniversary weekend. We had a great time. The cottage was convenient to everything we wanted to do.

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Guest: Fred17 (York, PA)
Date of Stay: 07/19/09 Review Submitted: 07/19/09

What a unique and relaxing place. We just wanted to let you know that we had a great weekend in Annapolis! Alot of that is due to your informative and helpful recommendations! We spent a good deal of time on the back porch and backyard--it's lovely.

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Guest: Lauren30 (Massachusetts)
Date of Stay: 06/17/09 Review Submitted: 06/17/09

Charming, delightful cottage! I love the gardens and the ability sit on the porch and enjoy the out of doors during the day and evening. The location is perfect - a short walk to Annapolis Harbor to view the Lighted Boat Parade, the neighborhood tug of war- you have to see it to believe it and many other great events in downtown! I love not having to drive, truly relaxing to stroll to the harbor for a bite to eat, cocktails and appetizers and entertainment.

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Guest: Mariah 1 (Seattle, WA)
Date of Stay: 06/13/09 Review Submitted: 06/13/09

What I loved about your cottage was the charm of it with all of the flowing colors inside and out. You have put a lot of attention into the details of placing cozy conversational corners with furniture in different rooms and on the back porch. For a small cottage it felt very spacious, warm and inviting! Each room had a special touch and the yard was awesome. I loved finding all your hidden treasures in the flower beds and bushes. It was a real delight to be there!

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Guest: Anonymous
Date of Stay: 05/28/09 Review Submitted: 05/28/09

"Lovely little cottage and gardens with relaxing screened porch and private yard. Perfect for a small group. We had plenty of parking and walked to town every day. Yarrow is the best!"

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Guest: Bill, Josielyn & Nick
Date of Stay: 09/16/08 Review Submitted: 10/04/10

The four days went by all too quickly! And the relaxed Chi Rising home was special, with the "welcoming" touches all noticed and appreciated. We felt at home immediately! The Naval Academy, kayaking, historical areas...were great. The water taxi was, at times, very entertaining! And, too soon it all ends. Bill Josielyn & Nick

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